- New research indicates the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (Amoc) is significantly more likely to collapse than previously understood.
- Experts suggest the Amoc could reach a shutdown tipping point within decades, with a projected slowdown of 42-58 per cent by 2100, making collapse almost inevitable.
- A collapse would trigger catastrophic consequences for Europe, including extreme cold winters and summer droughts, and disrupt tropical rainfall patterns globally.
- The study, led by Dr Valentin Portman Inria, combined ocean observations and computer models to determine that a catastrophic slowdown is the most probable outcome.
- While some earlier research offered a more optimistic outlook, even a weakened Amoc is expected to cause severe economic and environmental impacts.
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